China Reaffirms Zero-Tariff Access for 53 African Countries Starting May 2026
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reaffirmed that China will grant zero-tariff access to imports from 53 African countries, with the policy scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2026.
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing on March 8, Wang said the move is part of China’s broader effort to expand trade opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation with African nations. The policy will remove tariffs across 100 percent of tariff lines, allowing African products to enter the Chinese market duty-free.
According to Wang, the initiative aims to help African economies gain greater access to the vast Chinese market while supporting trade-driven development across the continent.
Policy Covers 53 African Countries
The zero-tariff measure will apply to all African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China. However, Eswatini is excluded because it maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan rather than China.
The policy was announced earlier this year as part of expanding economic cooperation between China and African countries, and it is considered one of the most extensive tariff-removal measures China has offered to a regional group.
Opportunities for African Exports
The initiative could create significant opportunities for African exporters across several sectors, including:
- Agricultural products such as coffee and cocoa
- Minerals and natural resources
- Textiles and light manufacturing
- Processed food and horticultural products
Analysts say the tariff removal could help African producers become more competitive in the Chinese market while encouraging industrial development across the continent.
What It Means for Ethiopia
For Ethiopia, the policy could expand export opportunities to China, particularly in key sectors such as coffee, oilseeds, pulses, leather products, and textiles. With tariffs removed, Ethiopian exporters may gain improved market access and stronger competitiveness in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
Strengthening China–Africa Trade Relations
Trade between African countries and China has grown significantly in recent years, making China the continent’s largest trading partner. Officials believe the zero-tariff initiative could mark a new phase in economic relations by encouraging higher export volumes and deeper commercial cooperation.
The policy is expected to officially take effect on May 1, 2026, with governments and exporters across Africa preparing to take advantage of the expanded market access.